Teodoro Melendez and Family from Peru

'My artistic formation came from my dad during his work as an archaeologist at pre-Hispanic sites, and later as the curator of a museum. That's when I became inspired to craft jewelry with designs and motifs unique to ancient Peru. One of my most cherished moment was when I had a small workshop and my children, Carlos and Alicia, where with me while I was cutting gems by hand. Then we put them through a little machine to perfect the contours. I love the idea that foreigners can get to share part of our history through my designs, where I try to replicate both metals and gems.'